Greg Byrne looks on during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Gardner Webb in Tucson, Ariz. Byrne became Arizona's athletic director in 2010 and has led the department to unprecedented heights. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

SinceΒ Greg ByrneΒ committed about $600,000 annually to pay for a morning brunch for Arizona athletes, the school has served 18,300 brunches since school began. Byrne even included the cheerleaders in the plan (they consumed 1,327 meals). Here’s how to get a grip on what it costs to operate a full athletic department: The UA’s men’s and women’s track and field teams have eaten 4,582 brunches since school started. That’s part of the reason why the Pac-12 football championship game is being played at Santa Clara’s Levi Stadium and not at an on-campus site: The revenue from that contract helps to pay for those brunches.


Become a #ThisIsTucson member! Your contribution helps our team bring you stories that keep you connected to the community. Become a member today.